Uncompensated Ionization Chamber

Exosens offers a reliable portfolio of uncompensated ionization chambers, designed for precise neutron flux measurements in environments where gamma radiation is minimal or well-controlled. Our uncompensated chambers feature a neutron-sensitive boron coating and hydrogen filling gases ensuring accurate detection of both thermal and fast neutrons. Ideal for a wide range of high neutron flux applications such as power range in nuclear reactors or experimental research facilities, Exosens' uncompensated ionization chambers provide unparalleled reliability where gamma interference is not a concern.

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Accurate Neutron Detection in High Neutron Flux, Low Gamma Environments
Reliable, long-term Operation
Flexible customization to meet specific user applications - Customization according to the user’s needs
Guarded designs to maximizes signal-to-noise ratio

Uncompensated Ionization Chamber

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Technical information

Product[a]DiameterSensitive Length

Sensitivity[b][d] 

Material[g]CompensationType[h]
 (mm)[b][c](mm)[b][c]Neutron (A/nv)[e]Gamma (A/Gy/h)[f]   
IN3838.12101.4x10-142.5x10-10AluminiumUncompensatedGuard Ring
IN2850405 - 5155.5x10-14 to 7.0x10-14 [j]≤1.7x10-9 [j]AluminiumUncompensatedGuard Ring
IN575901.2x10-142.85x10-10AluminiumUncompensatedGuard Ring
RC789.21047.7x10-15 to 2.92x10-14 [j]7.5x10-13 to 6.76x10-12 [j]AluminiumUncompensatedDomed+ Guard[i]

[a] Centronic have over 40 neutron ionisation chamber designs, table shows the most popular variants
[b] Nominal values stated
[c] Excludes any containment and/or termination compartments
[d] Standard Centronic tolerance on these devices is ±20%
[e] Using 10B enriched to >90% unless otherwise stated
[f] Based on 1 Gray = 114 Roentgen
[g] Products are typically rated to temperatures in the region of 200°C to 300°C, alternatives material are available to allow operation at high temperatures
[h] Design, materials and manufacturing process are common among most of these devices. Consequently operation capability is common and may be transferable. 
[i] Domed design allows for a more uniform 2π polar response 
[j] Subject to specific configuration

Description

An uncompensated ionization chamber is a type of radiation detector that is designed to measure neutron flux in environments where gamma radiation is low or well-controlled. The chamber typically contains a neutron-sensitive material, such as boron or hydrogen, which ionizes when exposed to neutrons. The resulting ionization generates a current that is proportional to the neutron flux.

Unlike compensated ionization chambers, an uncompensated chamber does not have a mechanism to separate the effects of gamma radiation from the neutron signal. As a result, it detects both neutrons and gamma rays, and its readings can be influenced by gamma radiation. This makes the uncompensated chamber ideal for environments with low or controlled gamma radiation, such as power range in nuclear reactors or experimental research facilities. .

What We Offer:

We supply a comprehensive range of fission chambers optimized for demanding applications. Our portfolio includes:

  • High-flux capable chambers for power reactor monitoring and control.
  • Customized designs tailored to specific reactor conditions or experimental needs.
  • Harsh environment models for extended lifetimes in high temperatures and radiation levels.

Our expertise ensures reliability, precision, and safety in all neutron detection applications, supporting the operational excellence and regulatory compliance of nuclear facilities worldwide.

Custom uncompensated ionization chambers

With full control of the following processes, Exosens can supply custom Exosens uncompensated ionization chambers with the highest quality and reliability levels:

  • Adaptation of industrialized designs to customer-specific requirements utilizing significant operational experience.
  • Development of new detectors with our experienced research and development teams.
  • Long-term collaboration with internationally renowned organizations for modeling, qualification tests and development.
  • Complete manufacturing and test process on site.
  • Support from all the Exosens group activities, experience, and knowledge.
  • Highly regulated Quality Assurance programs adapted to the customer’s environment.
  • Expertise in design and manufacture of nuclear instrumentation to solve customer challenges.
  • Export control, as an Authorized Economic Operator, Exosens acts in accordance with the EU international regulations.
  • Calibration measurements in high radiation flux
     

Examples of custom versions from basic types

  • Neutron and gamma sensitivity tailored to individual requirements.
  • Guard-ring (2 outputs) or unguarded (1 output) designs.
  • Options for high temperature (>300°C) operation.
  • Adapted mechanical interface for installation (Customized external dimensions, springs, threads, hooks).
  • LOCA (Loss Of Coolant Accident) and post-LOCA protection.
  • Ruggedized structure for harsh environment (radiation, temperature, humidity, mechanical stress).
  • Integral cables or integral connectors.
  • Coaxial or triaxial mineral-insulated cable, as well as organic cables.
  • Customized connector type (BNC, HN, SHV and many others)
     

Main features

  • Structure configuration: Coaxial, unguarded or guard-ring.
  • Structure material: Various material types utilized including aluminium and titanium. 
  • Integral cable: Integral mineral insulated or organic cables options are available.
  • Connector: Customized connector type (BNC, HN, SHV and many others) 
  • Insulators: Exosens only uses high-grade, radiation-resistant insulators from qualified suppliers to ensure the measurement of extremely low currents.

References

  • Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)
  • MAGNOX
  • Advanced Gas-cooled Reactor (AGR)
  • CANada Deuterium Uranium reactor (CANDU)
  • Pressurized Heavy-Water Reactor (PHWR)
  • Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR)
  • Water-Water Energetic Reactor (VVER)
  • Training Research Isotopes General Atomics (TRIGA)
  • Research Reactors
     

Documentation

Certificate

Brochure/Leaflet